SWPL: Rangers-Celtic Derby vital as they weave past leaders Glasgow City

Although Celtic have also been second best to some of their main rivals this season, some observers feel they have had a better start than expected.

Last season failed to live up to expectations as they looked to retain the title after their historic first win last campaign.

The demands of the League football champion and reports of unrest within the camp are not conducive to a successful season.

The loss of CANT’s key center-half Caitlin Hayes at the beginning of this year, followed by several important departures in the close season, caused a sense of unease.

A win for Hearts, a team that caused them some problems last season, gave a solid start.

Head coach Elena Sadiku said it was important to “build on that win”, but facing sides you’d expect to be their comforters this season, they dropped points.

A draw with Hibs was followed by a defeat at Rangers and City – all at home.

The defeat at home was painful and prompted the Swede to speak out, as he criticized Celtic’s level of investment in the women’s side.

“I feel now that we are in a situation where the teams are investing energy and you can see how high it is every season,” said Sadiku. “The teams are getting stronger and better and we have to push in the same direction as well.”

A Celtic team boss bemoaned the failure to strengthen their squad – a mirror image of Brimon Rodger’s current complaints.

Given some of their recent results and the current league pressures, there might be a point given to Celtic behind City and Hibs as the points level in Hearts.

However, six points off the leaders will never be taken for granted and a win over their rivals in Glasgow on Friday could get them back on track.

“There is more pressure on the rangers who are behind us,” Sadiku said. “It was a season because we beat them, but confidence will be more important than tactics and we have a strong belief at the moment.”

Rangers’ record at IBROX could also give Sadiku and his players confidence heading into a trip they will repeat in February when Celtic visit the holders in the SWPL Cup Semi-Finals.

As Sadiku added: “The SWPL is much bigger than it used to be, but that’s the most exciting thing about this league – playing against the rangers. It’s more than just a game.”